When it comes to home improvement, few things are as polarizing as wall cladding. Some people absolutely love the look and feel of freshly installed cladding, while others find it impossible to get past the initial “horror movie” factor.
What is wall cladding?
Wall cladding is a decorative material that is used to cover the exterior walls of buildings. It can be made from a variety of materials, including brick, stone, plastic, or metal panels.
Wall cladding can provide aesthetic appeal and protection against weather damage. Additionally, it can improve the appearance of a building by adding color and texture to its exterior Walls.
The different types of wall cladding:
There are a number of different types of wall cladding, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Here is a brief overview of the most popular types:
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Drywall
This type of wall cladding is made from plasterboard that has been covered in drywall paper. It is affordable and easy to install, but it doesn’t have any special insulation properties or fire resistance.
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Sheetrock
Sheetrock is similar to drywall, but it contains additional layers (of plywood) that increase its insulation and fire resistance. It’s also more expensive than other types of wall cladding, but it offers greater flexibility in terms of design and color choices.
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Gypsum board
Gypsum board comes in two varieties: veneer gypsum board (which looks like wood paneling) and propped gypsum board (which resembles concrete). Both versions are very durable and resistant to moisture damage, although veneer gypsum boards tend to be less elegant looking than other types of wall paneling.
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Metal framed wall claddings
This type of cladding employs metal posts that are framed between sheets Of sheet metal material. The frame can be painted or finished to match the exterior walls, making this type versatile for both residential and commercial applications.
So which type should you choose? It all depends on your specific needs!
The Pros and Cons of wall cladding:
There are a lot of pros and cons to wall cladding, so it’s important to carefully consider your needs before choosing the right product. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Pros:
- Wall cladding can add visual appeal and privacy to a room. It can also help reduce noise levels while keeping the interior temperature consistent.
- Wall cladding is easy to install and doesn’t require special skills or experience. Anyone with basic tools and know-how should be able to do it themselves.
- Wall cladding is durable and long-lasting, which means you won’t have to replace it frequently or spend lots of money on repairs.
Cons:
- The main con of wall cladding is that it can create thermal issues in the building. Heat will be trapped inside the walls, and it can become very uncomfortable in warm weather or during winter months.
- Wall cladding also creates an acoustic issue. Noise from traffic, people talking, or appliances running can be difficult to bear because it will constantly bounce off the walls and enter your home through the ceiling/flooring. It’s important to keep noise levels as low as possible when living in a construction zone so you don’t have to deal with any disruptions later on.
- Wall cladding may also impact indoor air quality due to pollutants created by the materials used in its manufacture and installation.
How to choose the right type of wall cladding for your home?
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the right type of wall cladding for your home. You’ll want to think about things like climate, style, and budget.
Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Think about the climate in which your home will be used. Wall cladding that is designed for cold climates (like aluminum or vinyl) may not be suitable in warm environments. Likewise, heavy materials like brick or stone may not be able to withstand extreme weather conditions well.
- Consider the look you’re going for. Some styles are more suited for traditional homes while others work better with modern designs.
- Think about how often you plan on using your walls – if they’re only occasional fixtures, lightweight materials might work best. On the other hand, if walls play an important role in your lifestyle (for example, as a dividing line between different rooms), then it’s worth investing in something more durable and functional.
Bottom line
When it comes to wall cladding, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you need to decide what type of material will look the best in your room. Options include wood, bamboo, metal, or plastic materials. Next, you’ll want to decide on a style – traditional clapboard or painted brick.
There are also many other factors that you’ll want to take into account when choosing wall cladding, such as cost and durability. Ultimately, it’s important to speak with a professional about your options so that you can find the perfect solution for your home!